Ahern in fresh appeal on Nice

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said a no vote in Thursday’s Nice Treaty Referendum would be a 'slap in the face' to the 12 countries applying to join the European Union.

His appeal comes as both sides step up their campaigns ahead of the vote. Mr Ahern said other countries should be given the same opportunities that Ireland has enjoyed within the EU.

Meanwhile there are reports that the referendum is set to face a last minute legal challenge in the High Court.

A prisoner in Mountjoy Jail is taking the action because as an inmate he is denied the right to vote. Patrick O’Doherty is to seek an injunction on Tuesday.

The Government is aware of the challenge and is expected to put up a strong defence.

Already a judgement is awaited on the same issue from the Supreme Court after the High Court ruled last year that denying the vote to prisoners was unconstitutional.